Defense + Security Architect

Description

Grace Design Studios is seeking an experienced and mission-driven Architect to join our Department of Defense (DoD) team. This role is ideal for a licensed architect who thrives in a collaborative environment and has a strong portfolio of federal work, especially DoD projects. You’ll have the opportunity to work on meaningful facilities that support national security, military readiness, and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design efforts for DoD projects from concept through construction administration.
• Interpret and apply UFC (Unified Facilities Criteria) and other federal design standards.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, consultants, and government clients to deliver compliant, functional, and innovative design solutions.
• Oversee production of design and construction documents, ensuring quality, code compliance, and adherence to scope.
• Provide construction administration support, including reviewing RFIs, submittals, and field observations.
• Participate in project planning, client presentations, and project reviews.

Required Skills

• Professional degree in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch).
• Licensed Architect with active registration in at least one U.S. state.
• Minimum 7 years of experience, with 3+ years working on federal or DoD projects.
• Strong knowledge of DoD design standards, including UFC and MILCON processes.
• Proficient in Revit and AutoCAD; familiarity with government project software and submittal platforms is a plus.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen and eligible to obtain a security clearance.
• Excellent communication, organization, and team coordination skills.
• Experience with design-build delivery. (preferred)
• LEED accreditation or experience with sustainable design on federal projects. (preferred)

Benefits

• Employer-paid health insurance, effective the 1st of the month after date of hire
• Profit sharing bonuses
• 401(k) plan with an employer match
• Employer-paid short-term disability, long-term disability, and life and AD&D insurance
• Other voluntary benefits including vision, dental, accident insurance, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and supplemental life insurance are available
• Paid Time Off
• Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program